Phosphine Information
Phosphine:
|
Other Names |
Phosphane, Hydrogen phosphide, Phosphorus trihydride; Phosphorus hydride |
|
Chemical Formula |
PH3 |
|
CAS Number |
7803 – 51 – 2 |
|
Industry Uses |
Fumigation; Pesticides; Microelectronics |
|
Health Risks |
Irritation; Vomiting; Multi-Organ system damage; convulsions; death |
|
Vapor Pressure |
41.3 atm |
|
Water Solubility |
Slightly Soluble |
|
Flammability |
Flammable |
|
Odor |
Fish or Garlic |
What is Phosphine:
Phosphine is a colorless gas that is very toxic at extremely low concentrations. Phosphine is naturally found in blood, cerebrospinal fluid, urine, and saliva. It is located in the cytoplasm and in humans, it functions in the paclitaxel pathway. It is used as an insecticide for the fumigation of grains, animal feed, and leaf-stored tobacco. Phosphine is spontaneously flammable creating toxic fumes. It often reacts with air. It is heavier than air and tends to travel along the ground to an ignition source. Heating phosphine can cause explosion and violent rupture. Phosphine is very toxic to aquatic life.
Phosphine Exposure and Health Risks:
Phosphine is extremely dangerous and highly toxic by inhalation. Even very low concentrations can be lethal. There is no antidote for phosphine poisoning, only treatment of symptoms. Artificial respiration, gastric lavage, and administration of activated charcoal may be necessary. Symptoms of acute phosphine inhalation are headaches, dizziness, fatigue, drowsiness, burning sub-sternal pain, nausea, vomiting, cough, labored breathing, chest tightness, pulmonary irritation, pulmonary edema, and tremors. Convulsions may ensue after an apparent recovery. Chronic exposure to phosphine can cause inflammation of respiratory tract, damage to gastrointestinal, cardio-respiratory, and central nervous systems, increased bone density, and jaundice. Contact with phosphine can cause irritation and skin burns.
Regulations:
The table below summarizes the most-recent exposure limits.
|
Limit/Level |
Type |
Organization |
|
Not Recommended |
AEGL-1 (8 hrs) |
EPA |
|
0.25 ppm |
AEGL-2 (8 hrs) |
EPA |
|
0.45 ppm |
AEGL-3 (8 hrs) |
EPA |
|
0.3 ppm |
TWA (8 hrs) |
OSHA |
|
0.3 ppm |
TWA (8 hrs) |
NIOSH |
|
1 ppm |
Short-Term |
NIOSH |
Measuring Phosphine:
Phosphine concentration in the air can be measured in units of parts per million (ppm). Many of our products have digital communication capabilities for easy monitoring and control. We carry portable and fixed Phosphine monitors and kits. All of our Phosphine products can be viewed HERE.
What type of component are you looking for?
| Fixed Mount | Handheld | Dissolved Kits: | Replacement Sensors: | Calibration Gas: | Rentals: |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
All sensors require a yearly calibration to ensure your gas measurements are accurate and performing within manufacturer standards. This page is desiccated to the individual manufacturers we represent and their specific calibration procedures.
**Calibration Service Request Form **
|
Calibration costs do vary, see below to get an estimate: Calibration Fee: $150 Analyzer Calibration Fee: $300 PM Calibration Sensor Fee: $330 Genie Calibration Fee: $265 ATI Calibration Fee: $205 ** note that prices are subject to change per labor and parts required. |
Contact us for help choosing the right monitor for your application
